Manchester United icon, Nicky Butt has told Mikel Arteta to exclude Arsenal striker, Viktor Gyokeres from the lineup for the Champions League final against PSG.
The Gunners have reached the Champions League final for only the second time in their history and the first time in two decades, having defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
PSG are considered strong favorites to defend their title as European champions after overcoming Bayern Munich 6-5 over two legs in the other semi-final. Butt expresses skepticism about Arteta’s squad being able to overcome Luis Enrique’s team.
In a conversation with Paddy Power via Goal, Butt pointed out the Premier League leaders’ deficiency in counter-attacking capabilities as the primary reason for their lack of prospects against PSG.
He stated, “I don’t see anyone defeating PSG. Arsenal lacks any counter-attacking threat; they do not possess anyone who can do that with speed.”
Butt said that the Ligue 1 giants have a 70 percent probability of winning the trophy in Budapest.
He acknowledged that Arsenal must adopt a defensive posture and play conservatively to have a chance on the counter. Nevertheless, Butt emphasized that Gyokeres should be substituted for Leandro Trossard for this strategy to be effective.
He added, “I would consider PSG to be significant favorites, 70-30. When they find their rhythm, no one can stop them. I can envision Arsenal’s game plan – to sit back, play tightly, and defend well.
“However, they will need to utilize Leandro Trossard because he is the only player with pace. If they opt for Viktor Gyokeres, he lacks the ability to counter-attack, which will lead to difficulties.”
Gyokeres has been performing exceptionally well lately. He netted a goal in the first leg against Atletico Madrid and scored twice against Fulham last weekend.
The Sweden international will be eager to participate in the prestigious European final after transferring from Sporting in a £64 million deal last summer.